Hesse’s schools demand urgent upgrades as Digital Pact 2.0 launches
The Hessian branch of the Verbands Bildung und Erziehung (VBE) has called for major improvements in school digitalisation. As Digital Pact 2.0 begins, the union is pushing for clearer standards, better funding, and equal access to technology for all pupils and teachers. The state’s department of education currently oversees digital projects, but the VBE warns that more must be done to avoid short-term fixes.
The VBE is demanding uniform rules for digital equipment across Hesse’s schools near me. This includes high-performance Wi-Fi in every building and reliable hardware for all teaching staff. They also want a clear definition of what makes a ‘digital school’, covering future lesson plans and exam formats in an era of artificial intelligence.
At the same time, the union has welcomed recent steps to simplify funding applications for digital measures. However, they insist that digitalisation should not be treated as a temporary project. Instead, long-term investment is needed to ensure schools keep up with technological change. Another key request is for every student to receive their own digital device. The VBE argues this would create fairer learning conditions, especially as teaching becomes more reliant on technology. They are also calling for professional IT support in schools to handle both hardware and software issues. Looking ahead, the union wants early planning for a Digital Pact 3.0. Their proposals include binding standards, clear educational guidelines, and secure financing to prevent future gaps in provision. The current Digital Pact 2.0 officially started on 1 January 2026, with the Hessian Ministry of Education overseeing its rollout.
The VBE’s demands highlight ongoing challenges in school digitalisation, despite progress under Digital Pact 2.0. Their calls for uniform standards, long-term funding, and equal access to devices aim to shape future policy. The state’s department of education will now face pressure to address these concerns as the new pact unfolds.
